Kapa'a sits on Kauai's eastern shore at a sea-level elevation, receiving approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall. The area features multiple county and private campgrounds with direct ocean access, creating options for pet friendly camping where temperatures rarely drop below 70°F. Most campgrounds require permits that must be secured in advance, with county locations typically costing around $3 per night.
What to do
Snorkeling with turtles: Anini Beach Park offers protected waters for safe snorkeling experiences. "We swam with turtles and snorkeling was good!" says Jen C. about Anini Beach Park. The shallow reef creates ideal conditions for beginner snorkelers.
Morning hikes before crowds: Hā'ena State Park connects to popular trails worth exploring early. "This was one of my favorite places to visit because it was very close to the Napali Coast which has so much hiking," notes Sasha W. about Hā'ena State Park, adding, "Be sure to wear the correct shoes because it definitely gets wet and slippery."
Canyon exploration: Venture to Waimea Canyon for inland hiking alternatives. "From here you can view the Kalalau Valley lookout and look out over Waimea Canyon, known as 'The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,'" explains Dmitri W. about Kōkeʻe State Park Campground. The higher elevation provides a cooler alternative to beach camping.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Many sites allow camping within steps of the water. "We have our tent set up under huge trees, next to the beach and it is gorgeous! This is tent camping at its best," shares Jen C. about Anini Beach Park. Several campgrounds feature oceanfront camping with beach access directly from sites.
Protection from elements: Large trees at many campgrounds provide natural shelter. "Anini Beach Park is home to a shallow section of reef with a sand bar reaching far out to it. A great place for snorkeling, fishing and crabbing, the campsites lie under a canopy of trees protecting most tents even on the stormiest of nights," reports Lindsey M. about Anini Beach Park.
Hot coffee and friendly cats: Kumu Camp provides morning coffee service. "Free am coffee in a short window with cute cats," mentions Leigh G. about Kumu Camp. This small amenity saves campers from packing coffee-making supplies.
What you should know
Permit requirements: County campsites require permits purchased in advance. "The permits are really easy to get and are pretty cheap. Just go to the camping office for parks in Lihue and you can get it either in advance or day of," explains Jenny R. about Anahola Beach Park.
Bug protection essential: Sand flies and mosquitoes are common at dusk and dawn. "TONS of bugs that you can't really feel biting you so bring really good (and environmentally friendly) bug spray," warns Lindsey M. about Wiliwili Camp.
Variable shower conditions: Expect basic, sometimes cold showers. "The showers are outdoors and not heated," reports Jen C. about Anini Beach Park. Kumu Camp offers "sweet outdoor showers," according to Leigh G., though "hot water does run out."
Security concerns: Car break-ins can occur at trailhead parking. "Our car got broken into where we left it parked on the road. Don't leave anything valuable in the car!" cautions Julie D. about parking near Wiliwili Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Seek reef-protected beaches for safer swimming with children. "This was also a wonderful bay to swim in," notes Hannah S. about Kumu Camp. Anini Beach Park features a "shallow section of reef" making it particularly suitable for families.
Bathroom proximity: Choose sites near facilities for convenience. "Bathrooms were well stocked and mostly clean," reports Jen C. about Anini Beach Park. Most county parks feature flush toilets and outdoor showers.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for local wildlife sightings. "Lots of roosters and quail, hunters seeks wild pigs down in the canyon," mentions Lindsey M. about Lonomea Shelter and Camp. Chickens are particularly common and vocal at many campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most county campgrounds lack RV hookups. Kumu Camp offers some of the few RV spaces on the eastern shore, though without full hookups. "We were there in a camper van," notes Hannah S., finding the experience positive despite limited amenities.
Tent-top solutions: Consider vehicle-mounted tent options as an alternative to traditional RVs. "Saw many folks with rented trucks with tents on top," observes Leigh G. about Kumu Camp. This provides flexibility on the island's smaller roads.
Parking challenges: Vehicle size restrictions exist at most campgrounds. The limited parking and narrow access roads make smaller RVs and camper vans more practical than large motorhomes for pet friendly camping near Kapa'a.
